What's On - April 2015

What’s On APRIL | FREE

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Local Story: Whisky in the Park Special Offers Events: over 60 this month

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elcome to the Cairngorms National Park and the April edition of What’s On, the free monthly events guide.

To help you make the most of your time here we’ve put together an essential guide packed with what’s happening in the area.

We’ve got some great ideas for things to do, places to see, where to eat and drink, and places to stay.

1 Shopping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 1 Accommodation. . . . . . . . . . 18 1 Eat and Drink . . . . . . . . . . . 18 The What’s On guide is also available online at www.visitcairngorms.com

april 2015

What’s On in april

Contents

There are lots of fun events for all the family this Easter. Take the kids to meet the Easter bunny at Landmark Forest Adventure Park in Carrbridge or visit an Easter mini-farm at The Strathspey Railway Broomhill Station. Don’t miss the Ballater Bike festival with demos and BBQ, a great opportunity to try bikes from lots of different brands on local trails.

New exhibitions open from local painter Ann Vastano and photographer Gerard Murphy plus the annual Photofest returns to Nethy Bridge with an eclectic mix of inspiring images from ten local leading photographers.

Published by and all advertising sales Cairngorms Business Partnership Tel: 01479 810200. info@visitcairngorms.com www.visitcairngorms.com Event calendar on your smartphone at m.visitcairngorms.com

Happy Easter! *Smartphone users*: Download a QR reader app from your iphone or android store and scan the QR code on the front cover to get even more information at your fingertips with the Visit Cairngorms App! Alternatively visit m.visitcairngorms.com with your mobile internet browser.

Produced by Landmark Press Carrbridge www.landmark-press.com Tel: 01479 841900.

Photo credits: Front cover image: Landmark Forest Adventure Park. Photography: Atholl Estates, Spirit of Speyside Whisky Distillery, Angus Findlay; CNPA, Glenlivet Distillery.

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ou are in an all year round destination with lots going on. Use the listings to plan your fun! The Events list outlines exhibitions and events of interest over more than one day, the Calendar section gives you a day by day list of events and Day by Day shows regular events. Enjoy!

Events of Interest

4th-5th April

what’s on april 2015

3rd-19th April

Children’s Easter Hunt in the Forest Laggan Wolftrax Centre, Strathmashie, Laggan. 10am-4pm.

Fun for all the family. Maps available at the café from £1.50-£3. T: 01528 544366. www.lagganforest.com

3rd-19th April

Easter Egg Hunt & Meet the Easter Bunny Landmark Forest Adventure Park, Carrbridge. Park entrance fee applies. T: 0800 7313446. www.landmarkpark.co.uk

3rd April-25th September

Gerard Murphy Photography 2015 Summer Exhibition Corgarff Community Hall, Strathdon. 10am-5pm. Open 7 days a week. T: 07501 086882. www.gerardmurphyphotography.co.uk

Egg-citing Woodland Activities in Boat of Garten Boat of Garten Community Hall.

1-4pm. Bring your Easter Eggs & make them a nest!

Ages 5-12. Family ticket £5.

T: 07710 387510.

4th-5th April

16th-18th April

Jumble Sale St. Columba’s Church, Grantown Ann Vastano Art Exhibition on Spey. 10am-8pm Thurs & Fri. The Iona Gallery, Duke St, Kingussie. 10am-12pm Sat. T: 01479 873927.

12pm-6pm. Local artist Ann Vastano 18th-19th April showcases new paintings and prints at her Easter exhibition.

Ballater Bike Demo T: 01540 662900.

Weekend & BBQ www.theionagallery.co.uk Cyclehighlands Ltd, Ballater.

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Calendar of Events Wednesday 1st April

Badger Watch Boat of Garten. 7.15-8.30pm.

Watch badgers in a comfortable hide on the banks of the Spey.

Booking essential. £10 per Adult.

Accompanied children (under 16) Free. T: 01479 831768 / 07787 323264. www.highlandbadgers.net Music In The Forest at Glenmore Pine Marten Bar Glenmore, Aviemore.

7.30-11.30pm. An evening of great live folk music. T: 01479 861253.

Egg-citing Woodland Activities in Nethy Bridge Nethy Bridge Community Centre.

1-4pm. Bring your own Easter Thursday 2nd April Eggs and make them a nest!

Opening Day of Outdoor Family ticket £5. T: 07710 387510.

Draughts Season Outdoor Draughts Board, The Square, 5th-26th April Grantown on Spey. 11am-6pm.

Photofest 2015 T: 01479 873814.

Abernethy Old Kirk, Nethy Bridge.

12-5pm. An eclectic mix of inspiring Joint Tenebrae Service, Abernethy, Boat of images from 10 local leading photographers. FREE. Closed Tues Garten & Duthil Churches St Columba’s Church, Boat of Garten. & Thurs. T: 07934 413063.

7.30-8.30pm. Tenebrae Service of www.oldkirknethybridge.org Worship. T: 01479 831252.

4th-12th April

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Bike Demo Day & BBQ. T: 01339 755864.

E: info@cyclehighlands.com. www.cyclehighlands.com

Friday 3rd April

Children of Osprey Play & Pray Group Walk and Picnic St Columba’s Church, Boat of Garten.

11am-2pm. Walk up to Fairy Hill for a picnic. T: 01479 831252.

Service of Holy Communion

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Easter Egg Hunt Burn O’Vat Visitor Centre, Dinnet.

1-4pm. Enjoy a springtime walk while you hunt for clues to win an Easter Egg. T: 01339 881667.

Evening Talk: Operation Osprey Grant Arms Hotel, Grantown on Spey. 8.30-9.30pm. Illustrated talk by Ralph & Brenda Todd based on their time as volunteers.

T: 01479 872526. www.bwwc.co.uk

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Cadbury Easter Egg Trail Stag Ballroom, Mar Lodge Estate, Braemar. 10am-4pm. Turn Eggsplorer with us this Easter. £2 Saturday 4th April per trail sheet. T: 01339 720164.

Evening Talk: Unravelling Services of Holy the Mysteries of Communion Movement and Migration St Columba’s Church, Boat of Grant Arms Hotel, Grantown on Garten. 10am. T: 01479 831216.

Spey. 8.30-9.30pm. Illustrated Ballater Boules talk by Dawn Balmer of the BTO. Monaltrie Park, Ballater. 10.15am.

T: 01479 872526. www.bwwc.co.uk No partner or experience required.

Easter Special On The T: 01339 755345.

Strathspey Railway www.ballaterboules.weebly.com Located on Platform 3, Dalfaber Easter Sunday Egg Hunt Road, Aviemore. 10.30am, 12.30pm Loch an Eilein, Rothiemurchus. & 2.45pm. Experience a special 11am. T: 01479 812345 animal-themed Easter at The www.rothiemurchus.net Strathspey Railway! Standard travel prices apply see website for details. Easter Sunday Fun Day at Braemar Castle www.strathspeyrailway.co.uk Braemar. 11am-3pm. Tours, Egg Olympics Food, Children’s Arts and Crafts.

Blair Atholl Info Centre, Blair Atholl. Included in daily admission price.

2-3.30pm. Eggy activities for T: 01339 741219.

Families. £2 per child. www.braemarcastle.co.uk Strathspey Thistle v Service of Easter Worship Lossiemouth Football in Kincardine Church Match Kincardine Kirk, Boat of Garten.

Seafield Park, Grantown on Spey.

6-7pm. T: 01479 831252.

3pm. Highland Football League Music in The Forest at fixture. Adult: £8, Conc £4.

Glenmore www.strathspeythistlefc.co.uk Pine Marten Bar Glenmore, Aviemore.

Cairngorms RDA Open Day 7.30-11.30pm. An evening of great Newtonmore Riding Centre. 1-3pm. live folk music. T: 01479 861253.

Find out what the Cairngorms RDA Monday 6th April are doing for disabled riders in the Easter Special On The local area. T: 01540 670000.

Strathspey Railway www.cairngormsrda.org.uk Located on Platform 3, Dalfaber Sunday 5th April Road, Aviemore. 10.30am, 12.30pm Joint Easter Sunday Early & 2.45pm. Experience a special Morning Worship animal-themed Easter at The Loch Garten, Boat of Garten. 8-9am. Strathspey Railway! Standard travel Greet the Risen Christ on the shores prices apply see website for details. of Loch Garten. T: 01479 831252. www.strathspeyrailway.co.uk Abernethy Church, Dell Road, Nethy Bridge. 7.30-8.30pm.

T: 01479 831252.

Wednesday 8th April

Woodland Treasure Hunt Glen Tilt Car Park, by Blair Atholl.

2-3.30pm. Search for clues and treasure on a self-guided trail through the woods. Children £2.

T: 01796 481355.

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Glass Fusing Demonstration The Trove, Main St, Newtonmore.

2.15-2.45pm. Introductory talk about glass fusing. T: 07921 729249. www.fusedandlight.co.uk Badger Watch Boat of Garten. 7.30pm. Watch badgers in a comfortable hide on the banks of the Spey. Booking essential. £10 per Adult.

Accompanied children U16 FREE. T: 01479 831768 / 07787 323264. www.highlandbadgers.net Evening Talk: The Natural Wonders of Iceland Grant Arms Hotel, Grantown on Spey. 8.30-9.30pm. Illustrated talk by Ralph & Brenda Todd based on their time in Iceland.

T: 01479 872526. www.bwwc.co.uk

Friday 10th April

Deer, Ponies, Lambs & Calves Glen Tilt Car Park by Blair Atholl.

3-4.30pm. A walk on the farm to see red deer & ponies and new-born calves & lambs. Adults £2, children £1. T: 01796 481355.

Saturday 11th April

Bird Ringing Demonstration Glen Tilt Car Park, by Blair Atholl.

7.30-9.30am. A rare opportunity to get really close to our feathered friends. Adults £2, children £1.

T: 01796 481355.

Mending Our Ways Spittal of Glen Muick visitor centre, Braemar. 10am-4pm. Join the Rangers on a day of practical conservation repairing damaged paths. T: 01339 755059.

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General Natural History Walk Glen Doll Ranger Base, By Kirriemuir.

11am-2pm. Ranger-led wildlife walk to observe the flora & fauna of the Glen. FREE . T: 01575 550233.

Sunday 12th April

The Glenlivet 10k Road Race The Glenlivet Distillery, Ballindalloch.

11am-2pm. Stunningly scenic running event for all based at Glenlivet Distillery. £21 entry per runner - all event proceeds go to Scottish Health Charity Chest, Heart & Stroke Scotland local community services. T: 01463 701198. www.theglenlivet10k.com

Monday 13th April

Glass Fusing Demonstration The Trove, Main St, Newtonmore.

2.15-2.45pm. Introductory talk about glass fusing.

T: 07921 729249. www.fusedandlight.co.uk Ballater & Crathie Community Council Mike Sheridan Room in the V&A Halls, Ballater. 7-10pm. All are welcome to Ballater & Crathie Local Community Council meetings.

T: 013397 55345. www.ballaterandcrathie.org.uk

Tuesday 14th April

Go Fly a Kite in Carrbridge Village Car Park, Carrbridge. 2-4pm.

A chance to make kites out of bits and bobs and weather permitting, fly them. Adults FREE when accompanying a child, children £3.

T: 01479 873914.

Inverallan Old Time Dancing Inverallan Church Hall, Grantown on Spey. 7.30-10pm. Dancing to live music. £3 inc tea and biscuits.

T: 01479 851353.

Evening Talk: South Georgia Project Artists for Albatrosses, Grant Arms Hotel, Grantown on Spey. 8.30-9.30pm.

An illustrated evening talk by Chris Rose on the South Georgia Project.

T: 01479 872526. www.bwwc.co.uk

Thursday 16th April

Disability Forum Talla Nan Ros, King Street, Kingussie.

2-4pm. Information from charities on their work and the type of support available. T: 01540 673020.

Saturday 18th April

Hands on Conservation Glen Tanar Visitor Centre, Aboyne.

10am-4pm. Work with the Ranger and John Muir Trust members.

T: 01339 886072.

Loch Muick Spring Walk Spittal of Glen Muick Visitor Centre, Ballater. 9-11.30am. Enjoy the sights and sounds of spring in this iconic Highland Glen. T: 01339 755059.

Sunday 19th April

Ranger Led Walk Nethy Bridge Community Centre, Nethy Bridge. 9.30am-3pm. Walk with the local ranger and identify signs of Spring. Family ticket £5.

T: 07710 387510.

Put Spring in Your Step Boat Hotel, Boat of Garten.

10am-3pm. Easy return walk from village to Loch Vaa - our picnic stop. T: 07710 387510.

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An opportunity to view the breeding display followed by hearty breakfast. £25 per person. T: 01339 720164.

Friday 24th April

Evening Talk: Birds and People Grant Arms Hotel, Grantown on Spey. 8.30-9.30pm. An illustrated evening talk Mark Cocker, author of the book. T: 01479 872526. www.bwwc.co.uk

talk by author John Miles on his book. T: 01479 872526. www.bwwc.co.uk

Wednesday 29th April

Lords of the Dance, Kincraig Kincraig. 5-7am. An opportunity to witness the spectacle of a Black Grouse lek. Adults £4, conc. £3, Family £11. Booking essential.

T: 01479 873914.

Evening Talk: Feathered Saturday 25th April and Fierce Black Grouse ‘Dawnwatch’ A look at Birds of Prey - Grant Mar Lodge Estate, Braemar. 5-9am.

Arms Hotel, Grantown on Spey.

An opportunity to view the breeding 8.30-9.30pm. An illustrated display followed by hearty breakfast. evening talk by Brian Fuller. £25 per person. T: 01339 720164.

T: 01479 872526. www.bwwc.co.uk Loch Morlich Sailing Club: Start of Season Thursday 30th April Clubhouse, Loch Morlich, Black Grouse ‘Dawnwatch’ Glenmore. 11am-3pm. Open Mar Lodge Estate, Braemar.

Clubhouse for start of season.

5-9am. An opportunity to view www.lochmorlichsailingclub.org.uk the breeding display followed by hearty breakfast. £25 per Sunday 26th April person. T: 01339 720164.

Loch Morlich Sailing Club: Deshar Dawn Chorus Frozen North Challenge Meet at Community Hall Car Park, Loch Morlich Sailing Club, Clubhouse, Glenmore. 11am-4pm. Sailing dinghy Boat of Garten. 6.30-8.30am. races. www.lochmorlichsailingclub.org.uk Celebrate the dawn chorus with an early morning woodland stroll.

London Conchord Tuesday 21st April Donations welcome. T: 07710 387510.

Ensemble Seasonal Guided Walk Boat of Garten Community Hall.

RSPB Insh Marshes Car Park, 2 7.30pm. Organised by The Osprey Every Day in April miles out of Kingussie on B970.

Music Society. Tickets £13 members, 10am-1pm. Join the Reserve Warden £15 non-members: £5 students, £2 Every Monday for a walk with an emphasis on under-16s. T: 01479 831213.

Braemar Health Walk birds & aspens. RSPB members £3, www.boatofgarten.com Group non-members £5, Children under 16 Under the Mews, Braemar. Short, Monday 27th April Free. T: 01540 661518. safe, social, local, low-level, led walk.

Evening Talk: Hadrian’s 10-11am. T: 01339 741426.

Thursday 23rd April Wildlife Black Grouse ‘Dawnwatch’ Grant Arms Hotel, Grantown on Spey. Free Pool Night Mar Lodge Estate, Braemar. 5-9am.

8.30-9.30pm. An illustrated evening The Roundhouse Bar, Bridge of Tilt ­­www.visitcairngorms.com WO APRIL.indd 7

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what’s on april 2015

Awful Ancestors Braemar Castle, Braemar. 11am-3pm.

Fun for all the family when the gloriously gruesome characters of the past. Included in daily admission price. T: 01339 741219. www.braemarcastle.co.uk Wild Flower Identification for Beginners Glen Doll Ranger Base, by Kerriemuir.

11am-2pm. Join the Ranger for a stroll in Glen Doll Forest.

T: 01575 550233.

Aviemore & Vicinity Community Council Craft Fair Village Green, Aviemore. 12-4pm. local crafters selling their crafts.

T: 07925 150890.

Sponsored Litter Pick Nethy Bridge Football Pitch, behind Community Centre. 1-3pm. Sponsored litter-pick around the village & BBQ. Dowsing For Archaeology Kindrochit Castle, Braemar.

7-9pm. Dowsing for Archaeology demonstration and subsequent presentation. £2 for the evening; will include coffee/tea and biscuits.

T: 01339 741511. www.braemarlhg.com

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what’s on april 2015 things to do

Hotel, Blair Atholl, 4-10pm.

T: 01796 481333.

Cash Bingo Royal British Legion, Grantown on Spey, 7.50pm.

Live Music Hilton Coylumbridge, Aviemore, 8.30pm.

Live Music with Raymond Chuchuk Ballroom & Latin Dancing Duke of Gordon Hotel, Kingussie, 8.30pm. T: 01540 661302.

Live Music with Graeme Mackay on Accordion Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore, 9.30pm.

Live Music with Kenny Nairn Singer and Accordionist Duke of Gordon Hotel, Kingussie, 8pm. T: 01540 661302.

Live Music Hilton Coylumbridge, Aviemore, 8.30pm.

Quiz Night Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore. 9.3011pm. Cash prize, £1pp includes FREE stovies.

Every Thursday

Kingussie Health Walk Badenoch Centre. 10.30-11.30am.

Short, safe, social, local, low-level, led walk. T: 01540 661878.

Carrbridge Health Walk The Old Bridge . 11am-12pm.

Short, safe, social, local, low-level, led walk. T: 01479 841749.

Aviemore Health Walk Papa Rock, Aviemore. 1.30-2.30pm.

Short, safe, social, local, low-level, Every Wednesday led walk. Weather permitting.

Ballater Indoor Bowling Victoria Hall, Ballater. Mixed groups T: 01479 810519.

Live Music 2-4pm & 7-9pm.

Hilton Coylumbridge, Aviemore, 8.30pm.

Boat of Garten Health Every Tuesday Walk The Killiecrankies Cabaret Band Grantown on Spey Health Boat Hotel. 1.30pm-2.30pm. Short, Walk safe, social, local, low-level, led walk. Duke of Gordon Hotel, Kingussie.

Curling Rink Car Park, Anagach 8.30-11pm. T: 01540 661302.

T: 01479 831502.

Woods, 10.30-11.30am. Short, safe, Rotary Club of Spey Live Music with band social, local, low-level, led walk.

‘Tweed’ Valley T: 01479 841233.

Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore, 9.30pm Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore.

Ballater Health Walk 6pm-8.15pm. Dinner & weekly Dressmaking: Top & Group meeting. T: 01479 810233.

Trousers Glenmuick Church Hall, Ballater. 1-2 www.speyvalley.rotary1010.org Kingussie High School, Kingussie. pm. Short, safe, social, local, lowScottish Country Dancing 6.30-8.30pm. A five week course for level, led walk. T: 01339 755634. all ages with beginner dressmaking Braemar Village Hall, 7.30-9pm.

Cairngorm Bridge Club Donations welcome. T: 01339 741225. skills. £46.00. T: 01540 662420.

St John’s Church Hall, Rothiemurchus. Woodshed Wednesday www.clp-online.net 6.45pm. All bridge playing pairs Woodshed Bar, Coylumbridge, Every Friday welcome, visitors’ table money £3.

Aviemore. 10pm-1am. Live T: 01479 821435.

Glen Tanar Health Walk Acoustic hits followed by DJ set.

Glen Tanar Visitor Centre Car Park, Ballater Indoor Bowling T: 01479 810661.

Dinnet, 10am-11.30am.

Easy, lowVictoria Hall, Ballater. Mixed groups. Live Entertainment with level ranger-led health walk.

2-4pm & 7-9pm.

Davy Holt T: 01339 886072.

Ballater Bridge Club Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore. Live Mike Sheridan Room in the Victoria music in the Lounge Bar. 9.30pm. Live Music Hilton Coylumbridge, Aviemore, 8.30pm. & Albert Halls, Ballater, 7-10pm.

Live Music with George T: 013397 55308.

D.J. Jamie Music Night Gordon The Roundhouse Bar, Bridge of Tilt Duke of Gordon Hotel, Kingussie.

Prize Bingo Hotel, Blair Atholl, 9-11.30pm.

Live music with George Gordon.

Aviemore Legion. Prize Bingo. 8pm.

T: 01796 481333.

8pm. T: 01540 661302.

T: 01479 810892.

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Every Sunday

Live Music Hilton Coylumbridge, Aviemore, 8.30pm.

Live Music with Ronnie Douglas Accordionist Duke of Gordon Hotel, Kingussie, 8.30pm. T: 01540 661302.

www.shinty.com Saturday 4th April

Newtonmore 1sts v Oban Camanachd Shinty Match The Eilan, Newtonmore. 2.30pm.

T: 01463 715931.

Every Saturday 2nds v Lovat Traditional Music Session Kingussie Shinty Match The Suie Hotel, Kincraig. Featuring The Dell, Kingussie. 2.30pm.

Ilona Kennedy on her fiddle, other T: 01463 715931. musicians welcome, 7.30-9.30pm.

Strathspey v Glengarry Music in The Forest at Shinty Match Glenmore Grantown On Spey. 1.30pm.

Pine Marten Bar Glenmore, Aviemore. T: 01463 715931.

7.30-11.30pm. An evening of great live folk music. T: 01479 861253.

Saturday 11th April Newtonmore 1sts v Live Music Hilton Coylumbridge, Aviemore, 8.30pm. Glenurquhart Shinty Match The Eilan, Newtonmore. 2.30pm.

Live Music with Nigel T: 01463 715931.

Dyson Singer & Guitarist Kingussie 2nds v Glasgow Duke of Gordon Hotel, Kingussie, mid Argyll Shinty Match 8.30pm. T: 01540 661302.

The Dell, Kingussie. 2.30pm.

Karaoke Night T: 01463 715931.

The Roundhouse Bar, Bridge of Tilt Hotel, Blair Atholl, 8.30pm.

Saturday 18th April T: 01796 481333.

Newtonmore 1sts v Live Music Kingussie Shinty Match Woodshed Bar, Hilton Coylumbridge, The Eilan, Newtonmore. 2.30pm.

Aviemore, 9.30pm.

T: 01463 715931.

Live Entertainment Strathspey v Lewis Shinty with Ann Dickson Match Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore.

Grantown On Spey. 1.30pm.

9.30-12.45pm.

T: 01463 715931.

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Golf Saturday 4th April

Shinty

­­www.visitcairngorms.com

Saturday 25th April

Newtonmore 2nds v Fort William Shinty Match The Eilan, Newtonmore. 2.30pm.

T: 01463 715931.

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What’s On

Kingussie Golf Club Opening Competition Kingussie Golf Club, Kingussie.

12-4pm. Texas Scramble - 4 person team. T: 01540 661600. www.kingussie-golf.co.uk

Sunday 26th April

Braemar Junior Highland Games Texas Scramble Braemar Golf Club, Braemar.

9am-12pm. Charity Open Texas Scramble in aid of Braemar Junior Highland Games. £50.00 per team of 4. T: 01339 741618. www.bookteetime.co.uk

Details correct at time of going to press - please note events may change.

what’s on april 2015

Live Music with Carl Wilson Singer & Guitarist Duke of Gordon Hotel, Kingussie.

8.30-11pm. T: 01540 661302.

Live Music The Woodshed Bar, Coylumbridge, Aviemore, 9.30pm.

Live Entertainment with George Gordon Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore. 9.3012.45pm.

Music in The Forest at Glenmore Pine Marten Bar Glenmore, Aviemore.

7.30-11.30pm. An evening of great live folk music. T: 01479 861253.

MAKE SURE

‘WHAT’S ON’ KNOWS

WHAT’S ON! Contact Jolene at info@visitcairngorms.com or register your event online at www.visitcairngorms.com/ whatson to get your events in Copy deadline 9th of April for May 2015 edition.

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“Love makes the world go round? Not at all.

Whisky makes it go round twice as fast.”

Or so suggested Scottish writer, and author of Whisky Galore, Compton Mackenzie. In that case we must be spinning at a rate of knots in this part of the country. The Cairngorms National Park has no less than eight working distilleries producing malts with a range of individual flavours.

local stories things to do

These distilleries are; Glenlivet, Tamnavulin, Braeval and Tomintoul in the north, Royal Lochnagar in the east and Dalwhinnie in the south, and more centrally located, Balmenach at Cromdale and Speyside at Kingussie.

Three of the eight distilleries, Dalwhinnie, Glenlivet and Royal Lochnagar have Visitor Centres and Tomintoul can be visited by appointment. See how whisky is made, take a ‘behind the scenes tour’ and, of course, sample and purchase your favourite single malt.

At 1164ft above sea level Dalwhinnie is one of the highest distilleries in Scotland.

Founded in 1897, its remote location was chosen for the profusion of local peat and being close to the Highland Railway Line.

At the end of your tour, enjoy a taste of Dalwhinnie 15 year old complemented with specially selected handmade chocolate. www.discovering-distilleries.com/dalwhinnie The Glenlivet, the first licensed distillery in Scotland is located on the banks of the River Livet near Ballindalloch in the heart of Scotland’s malt whisky country.

Explore the distillery’s history, hear tales of whisky smugglers and marvel at the classic range of 12, 15, 18 and 21 year old malts. http://uk.theglenlivet.com

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Royal Lochnagar is named after the mountain Lochnagar which is over 3,000 ft high. The distillery is situated at Crathie, beside Balmoral Castle, halfway between the villages of Ballater and Braemar. The ‘Royal’ designation followed a visit by Queen Victoria in 1848 and like her, you are invited to enjoy a dram of their Highland single malt. www.discovering-distilleries.com/ royallochnagar Tomintoul Distillery is located on the banks of the River A’an on the picturesque Glenlivet Crown Estate in Speyside.

The distillery is named after the nearby village of Tomintoul which is the highest village in the Highlands. Built in 1964, the distillery uses traditional techniques that stretch back hundreds of years, to make their award-winning single malt. www.tomintoulwhisky.com On the cusp of the Park, some 15 miles north of Aviemore on the A9, you will find another distillery with a Visitor Centre.

Established in 1897 Tomatin Distillery has a range of award winning whiskies. After enjoying a dram at the Tasting Bar why not fill your own bottle of cask strength distillery exclusive whisky to take home? www.tomatin.com/distillery/visitor-centre

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Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival An ideal place to try single malts, either at an expert-led whisky tasting session or enjoyed by the fire at a renowned whisky bar, is at a whisky festival. One of the largest and most popular is the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival which runs from 30 April to 4 May.

The Spirit of Speyside Sessions boasts an exciting line-up of traditional music, contemporary folk, laid back jazz and ceilidhs. The Sessions will be staged at whisky-themed venues across the region. With ticket prices starting at £5.00, there is sure to be something in the Festival for every taste and budget. Book online now. To check dates, availability and to buy tickets visit www.spiritofspeyside.com or call 00 (44) 7789 671 635.

Tasting Tips Perhaps you have never tried malt whisky before, or you may be an ardent fan but selecting a dram can be a difficult task.

Malt whisky has just 3 ingredients, water, malted barley and yeast. The same basic process is used to produce malt whisky across the country but subtle variations mean single malts from each region have unique characteristics and flavours.

By far the biggest region geographically is Highland. The Highland malts embrace wide and robust flavours. Generally heavier and drier in character compared to other regions, malt whiskies from here often have nutty, honey, heather or peaty notes.

Contact each of the distillery Visitor Centres for opening times or to book a tour.

Whatever malt is to your taste, it will share ingredients common with other brands; an unspoilt natural environment, clean fresh air and wonderfully pure water.

local stories

The Festival is set around the River Spey which flows some 100 miles through the region from the Monadhliath Mountains near Aviemore to the fertile coastal plain of the Moray Firth. The five days are jam packed with themed events, tours and tastings and, this year, for the first time, the Festival extends to Aviemore. The small charming Speyside Distillery will be opening its doors for exclusive tours of its distillery; offering tastings with light bites at the Cairngorm Hotel in Aviemore and hosting tastings and afternoon tea on the vintage Strathspey Steam Railway.

On 2nd and 3rd May, the Keith Dufftown Railway is the venue for a Nosing and Tasting Special; also taking place over the weekend is the popular Dufftown Whisky Fair with an opportunity to sample malts from a range of small distilleries and independent bottlers. The Festival has something for everyone including traditional music at venues throughout Speyside.

If you are unable to visit the Spirit of Speyside Festival, there is always the Autumn Speyside Whisky Festival from 24-28 September 2015.

For details visit www.whisky.dufftown.co.uk

Slàinte!

The biggest region in terms of production, is Speyside. Half of all Scottish distilleries can be found here. Speyside single malts are noted for their elegance and complexity, sometimes with a refined smokiness but more often a fruitiness.

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See www.visitcairngorms.com for more information on each of the villages in the area.

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If you have a good story or would like to tell8us why you love the Park, let us know so we can share it!

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The Cairngorms National Park means so many things to so many people.

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to do

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T

here’s a whole host of things to do in the Cairngorms National Park and more and more people are discovering just how special this place is.

There are so many ways to make the most of our beautiful surroundings so what are you waiting for? Have fun!

to do

G8 $

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Aviemore | Boat of Garten | Broomhill

Experience a scenic vintage trip in the beautiful Cairngorms National Park Dining on Board Special Events Packages & Exclusive Experiences Gift Shops Book online: www.strathspeyrailway.co.uk

G8 $

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$I4

Balmoral Luxury Land Rover Safaris

G8 $

T: 013397 42534 e: info@balmoralcastle.com Accompany a ranger on a fascinating ‘behind the scenes’ tour of Balmoral Estate.

An excellent opportunity to experience the stunning mountain scenery of the Cairngorms National Park from the comfort of a luxury Land Rover Discovery.

For full details please visit our website www.balmoralcastle.com

E6 $

Strathspey Highland Ponies

F8 $

Rothiemurchus Aviemore

All levels of rider welcome w Rides organised according to ability w Exhilarating hacks over varied terrain w Spectacular scenery and wildlife All on fit, fun, active and good mannered mounts Book at Rothiemurchus Visitor Centre T: 01479 812345 (daytime) M: 07884 276368 www.rothiemurchus.net

to do

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F6 $

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v 20% discount on all Rides & Lessons with this advert v l Established in 1952 - Pony Trekking Pioneers l Working & Learning Holidays, Students taken l Lead Rein Rides from £10, any age, Stable Days l Heritage Centre, Free WiFi, Free Picnic Area l Approved by: BHS, ABRS, TRSS & The Pony Club

Ruaridh Ormiston, Biallid Farm, Laggan Road, Newtonmore PH20 1BP Tel: 01540 670000 Mob: 07920 556756 email: info@newtonmoreridingcentre.com www.newtonmoreridingcentre.com

E6 $

Let Bygone Drives take you on a vintage experience like no other, a nostalgic trip down memory lane when the world went at a slower pace. Our private chauffeur driven sightseeing tours are an experience that will stay with you forever.

Whether it’s a distillery trip around beautiful Speyside & Moray or further afield to Urquhart Castle, Loch Ness or even John O’Groats!

For full details & bookings please visit; www.bygonedrives.com or T: 07974 691623. Quote “What’sOn” to receive a 10% discount.

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to do

D5 $

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shopping and crafts

T E6 $

LOCH-AN-EILEIN POTTERY

shopping and crafts

here are lots of specialist shops throughout the area where you can find everything you need from outdoor kit to gifts for friends, or even a treat for yourself!

F6 $

Rothiemurchus, Aviemore PH22 1QP Hand thrown terracotta pottery by Penny Weir.

Open by appointment or by chance if you’re passing ‘Throw Your Own’ on Thursdays, £13 a shot.

Open Daily - Please phone Penny for opening times & workshop details.

01479 810837 info@penspots.co.uk www.penspots.co.uk

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Cairngorm Highland Bungalows

accommodation accommodation

W

e have a superb choice of quality accommodation in the area. Use the accommodation finder on www.visitcairngorms.com to help plan your trip and keep an eye on the special offers page for last minute deals and great savings.

E5 $ E6 $ E7 $ F7 $ F7 $

E6 $

Great North Lodges

26 luxury self catering lodges. Set in fantastic locations, throughout the Spey Valley, within the Cairngorms National Park, Scotland. We cater for all tastes, budgets and party sizes from 1 guest up to 23 guests. (Pets Welcome). Most of our lodges have log fires and wonderful outside Hot Tubs, many have luxury extras, including Saunas, Sky TV, Wi-Fi Internet access and much, much more. www.greatnorthlodges.co.uk gnl@greatnorthlodges.co.uk “Book Online” or call our Aviemore Office on 01479 812266

eat & drink

eat & drink

L

ook out for local produce & help reduce food miles within the Cairngorms National Park. We really are spoilt for choice. If you’re still stuck for ideas have a look at the next few pages and you’ll soon be inspired!

Beautifully furnished and equipped 1, 2, 3 & 4 bedroomed bungalows sleeping 2 - 8. Open fires.

Mountain views, pets welcome, Leisure Club/Golf facilities available. Easy walking distance to Aviemore.

S.T.B. HHHH Contact Linda Murray Tel: 01479 810653 www.cairngorm-bungalows.co.uk

silverglades

holiday homes

tel: 01479 810165 email: info@silverglades.co.uk web: www.silverglades.co.uk

20% off April dates Stylish self-catering bungalows in Aviemore. 3 & 4 star available. From 1-4 bedrooms.

All have TV, DVD, free view channels & Wi-Fi. BBQ, own garden & drive. Some with sauna, wood burner, designer kitchen & flat screen TV. Pets welcome in allocated properties. Guests discounted golf & leisure nearby.

STB HHH & HHHH. Colour brochure & Virtual Tours.

G8 $

Garth Hotel

& Restaurant

F7 $ Lunch served Monday-Friday 12-2pm, Evening meals served 6-8pm, Sunday 12-2pm

Boat of Garten - Tel: 01479 831 466 Local, Seasonal, Creative Food, Relaxed & Informal Dining Experience.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT PIE NIGHT ~ A Delicious pie with mash or chips, and a beer or wine for only £12 CELLAR SUNDAY NIGHT ~ Traditional Sunday Roast £11.95. Bring your own wine. (Normal menu also available) T: 01479 831 466 or E: info@andersonsrestaurant.co.uk

www.andersonsrestaurant.co.uk

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Special winter accommodation rates from £35 B&Bpp available, call us for availability.

Early Bird Voucher - Sun-Fri until 7pm.

25% discount based on pre-booking & taking 2 Courses - booking essential.

The Square (Castle Rd) n Grantown 01479 872 836 n www.garthhotel.com l www.visitcairngorms.com 23/03/2015 10:12

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LATAVERNA

Pizzeria, Bar & Takeaway Italian all you can eat buffet Served all day Original Stone-Baked Pizza New takeaway menu available Tel: 01479 810 683 High Range, Grampian Rd Aviemore PH22 1PT www.highrange.co.uk E6 $

Royal Tandoori Restaurant

Est 2000

and Take-away

Authentic Indian Cuisines Three course Business Lunch ~ £7.95 10% Discount on Take-away meals A La Carte Menu Freshly prepared coffees Private Function Room ~ ideal for stag, hen or birthday parties

Tel: 01479 811199 or 01479 811118

43 Grampian Road, Aviemore PH22 1RH www.royaltandoori.uk.com

E6 $

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OPEN 7 DAYS Lunch 12noon-2pm, Evening 5-10.30pm

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Cairngorm Hotel THE Place to Eat and Meet Opposite Aviemore Railway Station

Great Freshly Prepared Food All Day Beers, Wines, Spirits & Malts In the lively Lounge, All Day ‘til Late with Regular Entertainment + Live TV Sports

eat & drink

Bed & Highland Breakfast from £40 per person, per night

G8 F6 $ $ PINE MARTEN BAR

Dows Store & The Osprey Café

E6 $

Grampian Road n Aviemore 01479 810 233 n www.cairngorm.com THE

ROWAN TRE E

COUNTRY HOTEL & RESTAURANT Alpine Style Bar Glenmore Real Ales, Log Fire LIVE ACOUSTIC FOLK MUSIC MOST WEEKENDS Visiting Musicians Welcome

E6 $

M Family run hotel with a warm and friendly atmosphere M Modern Scottish Cuisine using local produce created by Award-winning team M Good Selection of Wines and Local Beers M Over 70 malt Whiskies M Childrens Menu

·· · ··

Fresh Food & Groceries Firewood & Kindling Serving homemade and locally sourced produce daily Open 7 days a week Home Delivery Available

Boat of Garten 01479 831225

01479 861 229

Restaurant open Tues-Sun 6-8.30pm Reservations Recommended

D5 $

Loch Alvie, by Aviemore - 2 miles S. on B9152 T: 01479 810 207 www.rowantreehotel.com

THE CROSS AT KINGUSSIE RIVERSIDE RESTAURANT WITH ROOMS

Fine Dining in the Cairngorms Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner AA Two Red Rosette Good Food & Michelin Guides 2015 www.thecross.co.uk 01540 661166

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